This U.S. Open-inspired braided ponytail is a grand slam

Dana Oliver

Beauty Director

September 6, 2017

The women’s tennis players at the 2017 U.S. Open (we miss you, Serena!) have kept us on the edge of our seats with their incredible athleticism. They’ve also served up some braid inspiration — from Petra Kvitova’s knotted pony to Venus Williams‘s voluminous natural-hair bun.

Julien Farel has worked as the official hairstylist for the U.S. Open for 11 years. Tennis players, celebrities, and VIPs flock to his style suite at the Arthur Ashe Stadium in Queens, N.Y., in between matches to get their locks transformed into some of the hottest braided hairstyles.

9. Brush bottom section and pull into a ponytail. Pro tip: Use a rat-tail comb for extra sleekness.

10. Undo topknot and combine braids into pony.

11. Secure with a hair elastic, wrap a small section of hair around to conceal, and pin.

12. Braid ponytail and secure end with an elastic. Pro tip: If your hair is full of loose layers, use a bit of hair gel like the Julien Farel Sculpting Gel or polishing milk to keep ends from sticking out.